It is widely understood that, in general, women seek health services more often than men. Men are more reluctant to see a primary care physician, undergo routine tests and screenings, and less likely to report pain or other symptoms. The reasons are nuanced and often unique to the individual. Some men see it as a sign
of weakness, others may want to avoid a negative diagnosis. It makes sense, then, that men who are uninsured are even less likely to seek out health care.
To address this challenge locally, the DeKalb County Board of Health and Physicians’ Care Clinic became community partners in 2018 to create the Men’s Clinic. Kevin Humphries, Jr., MHP, heads-up the initiative for the Board of Health where he works in Health Assessment and Promotion. The goal of the clinic is to encourage more men who are uninsured to address health concerns and receive regular screenings.
In 2018 the Board of Health was awarded a grant from the Fulton DeKalb Hospital Authority to launch the program, which aims to actively promote health services throughout the county and refer potential patients to PCC.
For many, PCC becomes a medical home where they can see a physician for an annual check-up, receive needed medications and health education, and have regular diagnostic screenings as needed. Our patients who require a specialist are referred to those who partner with the clinic, where they can receive services at no charge. Specialists who partner with us include ophthalmology, orthopedics, ENT, gastroenterology, surgery, and many more.
The results of the Men’s Clinic during its first year were very positive. Our statistics show the number of men treated at PCC increased from 28% in 2017 to 35% in 2018, a 7% increase. Funding for the Men’s Clinic was extended into 2019, and we are hopeful that our partnership with the DeKalb County Board of Health will continue to positively impact the health of more men and families in our community.
To become a patient at Physicians’ Care Clinic, the first step is to complete the application below:
Download Patient Application
